Ledley King has told the Evening Standard that Tottenham Hotspur defender Eric Dier is the best English player in his position – after the Spurs centre-back was recalled to the England side by Gareth Southgate ahead of the World Cup.
Dier, 28, has played every single minute of Tottenham’s 11 games this season. He is, without doubt, first choice for the London club this season. That is, despite there being numerous options in the middle of defence for Antonio Conte.
The likes of Harry Maguire, John Stones, Conor Coady, Fikayo Tomori, Marc Guehi and others will be keen to start for England at the World Cup. They all have a chance. But Dier was given the nod to start against England and Italy.
Tottenham legend King was discussing Dier’s recent form since the arrival of Antonio Conte. He believes hat the Spurs ace is the best English centre-back at the moment – claiming he told Dier he would reach this level a few years ago.
“He has virtually been the best English centre-back over the last 12 months, so I am delighted he got recalled in the England squad. He has grown in confidence and understands the role. His leadership is important to the team.
“Conte trusts him and is playing every week and he shows it. I had a conversation with him a few years ago telling him that he would go on to be a top centre back having had that experience in midfield,” King added, on £4m Dier.
King: Tottenham defender Dier is best English player in his position
It is hard to argue with that, at this moment in time. Tomori and Coady are also in form, but they are not the level that Dier is. Starting Maguire was ridiculous, despite his form previously for England. Stones has been playing right-back.
Ultimately, Gareth Southgate has to pick players that he trusts – but also players that are in good form. A balance of both is key. Dier is in the form of his life, and is trusted by Southgate. He has got to be in the World Cup squad.
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